The introduction of the revised Healthy School Canteen Strategy increases the availability of healthy food and drink options in school canteens to make the healthy choice, the easy choice. It replaces the Fresh Tastes@School Strategy in NSW schools that was commonly known as the traffic light system.

The revised strategy is consistent with the 2013 Australian Dietary Guidelines and classifies food and drinks as either Everyday or Occasional. Sugary drinks will continue not to be sold.

NSW public schools will have until the end of 2019 to transition to the strategy in consideration of canteen operating arrangements, product availability, rural and remote locations and community and cultural expectations. During this time, schools will be fully supported to address practical issues that arise.

The strategy has been informed by a comprehensive evidence report and a consultation process that included school leaders, canteen managers, health professionals, the food industry, school students and parents to understand the barriers and enablers for increasing healthy food and drink choices in NSW school canteens.